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Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park Review

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Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

Fodor's Review:

On the National Register of Historic Places, this 280-acre bayside island is the site of a virgin-hardwood forest and the 1919 home of chemical magnate William Matheson. His caretaker's cottage serves as the park's visitor center. Access is by boat—your own, a rented vessel, or a ferry operated by Robbie's Marina at 10 AM and 2 PM Thursday to Monday. (Paddling here from Indian Key Fill, at MM 78.5, is a popular pastime.) The only way to do the trails is by a guided ranger walk, offered Thursday through Monday for ferry passengers on the 10 and 2 excursions. Wear long sleeves and pants, and bring mosquito repellent. On the first weekend in December is the Lignumvitae Christmas Celebration.

  • Cost: Free; tour $1; ferry $20
  • Open: Thurs.-Mon. 8-5
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